WHY IS THIS BEING REMADE?

It's more accurate to say it was "inspired by" or an "homage" to the original. There exist big differences in characterization, intention, tone, plot and feeling. Both films stand on their own, both are excellent, and both offer fantastic social commentary about the time period in which they were made. I saw them as a double feature at a film festival and thought they complemented each other well (I usually abhor re-makes). The only basic similarities are that of a cheating husband, a live-in female housekeeper, and an emotional manipulation leading to tragedy. Money and class restrictions are the elephant in the room in both films, but in vastly different ways. They also share a surreal ending...and a piano. IMHO both versions are well worth seeing.